It is with great sadness the family of Vella Mary Bower announce her passing, surrounded by her loving family, on August 11, 2020, at her home in Saint John, NB. Born in Saint John on February 6, 1924 she was the daughter of the late Willard and Masie (Fenerty) Graves. Vella is survived by her sisters: Barbra Watts of Toronto, ON, and Ruth Orsetti of Peterborough, ON as well as many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Vella was predeceased by her loving husband George Bower; siblings: Stanley Graves, Raymond Graves, Mildred McCormick, Marjorie Broaders, Parker Graves, Murray Graves, Katherine Handeland, and Nancy Allen. Vella moved to Toronto when she was in her late teens. She began working at Eaton’s, sewing draperies in the drapery department and continued to do so for many years. Vella also had a lifelong passion for quilting, having made over 1000 quilts during her lifetime. In the past 6 months she joined the fight against Covid-19 by making over 700 face masks for family, friends, and even sold many in the store at Loch Lomond Villa, donating the proceeds to charity. Aside from her family, Vella loved nothing more than sewing. Arrangements have been entrusted to Reid’s Funeral home (506-832-5541), 1063 Main Street, Hampton, NB and due to COVID-19 restrictions, private services will be held. Donations in memory of Vella may be made to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, or to the charity of the donor’s choice. Personal condolences to the family and donations may be made through ReidsFH.com